Jon, Thanks for the input. A single Athlon processor is a good option especially as a lot of apps only use one CPU on dual systems. Trouble is most CPU tests I've seen use 3D benchmarks for gaming: it's all polygons and fps and not fpu calculations for rendering. One real world test by a post production company using a dual Athlon system highlighted problems with power supply, cooling and, worst of all, stability. I need to know that the system is reliable enough to leave rendering an animation overnight or a weekend. I don't think that the Athlons are there yet. After three cutting-edge self builds in as many years I want a break from hardware config problems to do some creative stuff! The dual ABit/PIII system is known therefore "safe". I'd be interested to know what kind of times you're getting with your current system. Maybe I should just get a G4?:-)) Mark